Purdue University and VMS Solutions Initiate Partnership to Combat Semiconductor Workforce Gap

Purdue University Collaborates with VMS Solutions to Address Semiconductor Workforce Needs

In an effort to combat the persistent talent shortage in the semiconductor industry, Purdue University's Edwardson School of Industrial Engineering has teamed up with VMS Solutions. This strategic partnership aims to enhance both education and research within the realms of semiconductor manufacturing and supply chain management.

The collaboration is set to benefit students and researchers at Purdue by providing them with hands-on experience through VMS Solutions' cutting-edge software, MOZART Fab WISE. This technology, recognized in the industry for its capabilities, offers a digital twin and scheduling solution that mirrors the complex environments of semiconductor production. Starting this fall, the students in the course IE 490 Semiconductor Manufacturing and Supply Chain will be among the first to utilize this advanced software. There are plans to incorporate it into additional courses as well, expanding the learning opportunities for students.

Through the partnership, students will tackle real-world challenges concerning factory operations, capacity planning, scheduling, and decision-making within various constraints. The intention is not only to impart theoretical knowledge but also to equip students with practical applications of their skills, preparing them to enter the workforce with relevant experiences.

VMS Solutions, with over 25 years of experience in the semiconductor industry, has built a reputation for supporting major semiconductor manufacturers worldwide. Their software solutions are trusted by global production facilities for enhancing throughput, optimizing production planning, and facilitating autonomous manufacturing processes. This partnership thus presents a unique chance for Purdue students to engage with the same technological solutions used by leading enterprises in the sector.

“This collaboration seamlessly integrates the realities of advanced manufacturing into our classroom and laboratory environments,” noted Young-Jun Son, the James J. Solberg Head and Ransburg Professor at Purdue. “By interacting with commercial-grade technologies, our students can cultivate skills that are directly applicable to the operation of modern semiconductor fabs and smart manufacturing environments.”

Keyhoon Ko, the executive vice president at VMS Solutions, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “By introducing industry-standard solutions into our academic programs, we aim to nurture a generation of engineers who are both technically adept and ready to make contributions from their first day on the job. The semiconductor industry is in dire need of talent across various sectors, from manufacturing facilities to tech companies working on next-gen solutions.”

This initiative is indicative of a growing trend in which academic institutions partner with industry leaders to fortify the semiconductor ecosystem, ensuring it remains innovative and competitive. Additionally, it aligns with national objectives to bolster domestic chip production capabilities and enhance the resilience of the supply chain.

For further details regarding Purdue's engineering programs, visit Purdue University Engineering. To gain insights into VMS Solutions and their offerings, check their website at VMS Solutions.